Zoe Ball has revealed that her mother, Julia, has died following a battle with cancer.

The host of Radio 2's The Zoe Ball breakfast show revealed last month (March) that he mother, Julia, had been "heartbreakingly" diagnosed with cancer.

At the time she revealed she would be taking some time away from her breakfast show to "be at home with my Mama".

BBC Radio 2's Zoe Ball reveals death of her mother

Ball took to X (formerly Twitter) early on Wednesday (April 24) morning to announce her mother had passed away leaving her and her family "bereft".

The Radio 2 presenter said: "Sleep tight dear Mama.

"Thank you for teaching us how to love unconditionally, to always show courage and empathy, and how, even in the darkest of days, laughter is the greatest of gifts.

"We are bereft without you but will hold so tight to each other."

Fans rushed to the post to issue well wishes to Ball and her family following the death of her mother. 

One person, commenting on X, said: "Dear Zoe. With my love and prayers for you and the whole family - may you find strength together in your grief and, even in this moment, joy in the memory of the richness of your mum’s life, her example and her love for you."

Another added: "So sorry Zoe. Your mum sounds beautiful… What a credit to her you are."

While a third person commented: "Oh Zoe I am so sorry. Your mum is at peace ... it is the strangest feeling, wanting the pain to end, but not wanting them to leave.

"Sending you and your family lots of love."

Gaby Roslin and Radio 2 issues well wishes to Zoe Ball following death of her mother

Gaby Roslin has been filling in for Ball on her Radio 2 breakfast show this week, and over recent months while she has been away spending time with her mother.

Roslin revealed the news of Julia's death to listeners at the start of Wednesday's show and sent a message of support and love to Ball and her family. 

She said: "Zoe, you know I've got your back, I'll always have your back. 

"I love you dearly, you're a very dear friend, and everybody here on the team loves you and sends you so much love."

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The news comes just a week after Ball revealed her mother had been moved to a hospice.

In a post on X, which included a picture of bluebells, Ball said: "Thank you for all your kindness. the messages, letters and cards for Mum mean the world.

"Strength & love to the many families touched by cancer. holding tight & so grateful to the incredible people looking after our Ma.

"We pass these bluebells on the way to the hospice."